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"Markets weakened and then we have seen central bank in the market. It has reduced the pace of the shilling's depreciation. There is lots of demand," said Reuters, quoting a senior trader at one commercial bank.

The Central Bank rarely comments on dollar sales.

It has, however, gone on record in the past saying that it does not seek to determine the direction or level of the exchange rate, but rather intervenes to prevent volatility.

The demand for dollars is expected to persist in coming days, especially from the energy sector which is also contending with higher petroleum prices in the international market.